Contract Twist Could Kill Shock Comeback—Major Update on Chris Jericho Has Fans Rethinking Elimination Chamber Surprise
A new backstage update may have just crushed hopes of seeing Chris Jericho make a dramatic return to WWE anytime soon—especially with speculation swirling around the upcoming Elimination Chamber.
According to reports, Jericho is still contractually tied to AEW, and the situation surrounding his deal is more complicated than many expected.
AEW Contract Reportedly “Frozen,” Blocking Immediate Move
Wrestling journalist Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful reports that the belief among people close to Jericho is that his AEW contract is currently “frozen.” The status may date back to when he stepped away from TV in mid-2025.
There are also suggestions that injury time or a quiet contract extension could have extended his agreement. However, Sapp has not personally reviewed the contract, meaning exact details remain unclear.
Despite long-standing interest from WWE, Jericho is still listed on AEW’s official roster, making any immediate jump unlikely.
Music Tour Also Keeps Jericho Busy
Outside wrestling, Jericho is currently touring the UK with his band Fozzy. Even when the tour ends later this month, contractual limitations could still prevent a quick wrestling return.
Jericho has reportedly told people close to him that while he would consider returning to WWE, he is cautious about how it could affect his projects outside wrestling.
Mystery Crate Sparks Wild Fan Theories
The speculation intensified after a mystery crate appeared on WWE programming tied to Elimination Chamber. On screen, Adam Pearce sent the crate to SmackDown for Nick Aldis to investigate.
Fans immediately began theorizing Jericho could be revealed—especially since he famously debuted in WWE in Chicago back in 1999.
But with the latest contract update, that scenario now looks extremely unlikely.
Another Name Quietly Emerging as Surprise Candidate
Instead, attention is shifting toward Danhausen, known for his “very nice, very evil” persona. The 35-year-old reportedly wanted out of AEW after being unused on TV since 2024 and requested his release in 2025.
Reports indicated his deal could expire around early 2026, with WWE believed to have interest if he hit free agency. That timeline has only fueled speculation he could be the mystery reveal.
WWE Storylines Heating Up Elsewhere
Meanwhile, WWE is dealing with other major headlines, including injury concerns around Bianca Belair and uncertainty around the road to WrestleMania 42—adding even more intrigue to upcoming premium live events.
The Bottom Line
Right now, a Jericho return remains possible someday—but not imminent. Between contract complications, outside commitments, and AEW roster status, fans expecting a shock Elimination Chamber moment may need to lower expectations.
But in wrestling, surprises are never truly off the table—and that mystery crate still has everyone guessing.
